Kent County Commissioner Michael Jay Wawee, 43, recently charged with two felonies, is resigning from the Kent County Board of Commissioners, effective February 28.

He was charged earlier this month with embezzlement of $1,000 or more but less than $20,000 from a non-profit, and false pretenses of $1,000 or more but less than $20,000. The charges stem from his work for the Catholic Diocese of Grand Rapids selling cemetery plots, funeral services and memorial services.
Wawee released a statement saying that he needs to focus his energy on his family and proving his innocence, which means he will not be able to dedicate the time necessary to represent his constituents on the County Commission.

He represents Walker and part of Grand Rapids.

The application process for a new commissioner starts immediately.

“We, as a board, have continued to operate without a glitch,” said Board Chairman Dan Koorndyk. “It has not impacted day-to-day operations at all. We have a professional, dedicated staff in Kent County that manages the operations.”

The Board of Commissioners has 30 days from the effective date of resignation to select an individual to replace Mr. Wawee through the rest of his term. The person selected for that seat will hold it through December 2014. Those seeking the appointment to District 6 to replace Mr. Wawee should send a letter and resume to the Board of Commissioners Office, 300 Monroe Avenue, NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, by March 5, 2014.